Case Scenario: Vignette: Jordan
Jordan is a 17-year-old Black high school senior referred to the school-based mental health counselor after a significant drop in academic performance over the past semester. Teachers have observed him frequently distracted, staring blankly during class, and at times speaking softly to himself. One teacher noted that he abruptly left class twice last week without permission or explanation. When the school counselor met with Jordan, he was polite but withdrawn. Jordan denied using substances and explained, "I just have a lot on my mind." When asked to elaborate, he said, "Sometimes my thoughts are just loud and overlapping. It's like they all try to talk at once."
Jordan reported a prior diagnosis of ADHD in middle school but stated he has not received any accommodations or treatment for the past two years. His mother shared concerns about his increasing isolation, noting that he spends most evenings in his room, occasionally talking aloud when no one else is present. She added, "He used to be so social, but now he barely talks to anyone."
Instructions for Your Initial Post (Due Thursday)
Using this week's required readings from the DSM-5-TR (Neurodevelopmental Disorders and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders) and Morrison Chapters 1 and 2, write a post (300-400 words) that addresses the following:
Diagnostic Impressions:
Based on Jordan's symptoms, identify two possible DSM-5-TR diagnostic categories (one from the Neurodevelopmental Disorders chapter and one from the Schizophrenia Spectrum chapter).
Briefly justify why each diagnosis could be considered, citing 2-3 symptoms that support each.
Assessment and Clinical Reasoning:
Describe additional assessment questions or tools you would use to clarify which diagnosis is more appropriate. Need Assignment Help?
Identify what information is still missing that is critical for differential diagnosis.
Cultural and Systemic Considerations:
Reflect on how Jordan's racial and cultural background might influence how his symptoms are interpreted by professionals.
Briefly discuss potential risks of misdiagnosis and the role of culturally responsive interviewing in this case.